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Plano to Santa Ana Moving Guide Unlike Any You've Ever Read

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Moving from one city to another marks the beginning of a new adventure, filled with opportunities and experiences. Leaving behind Plano’s serene landscapes and tight-knit community for Santa Ana's vibrant streets and sunny disposition, you're transitioning between two uniquely captivating worlds, each with its own charm. Understanding the importance of a smooth transition, we emphasize the necessity of hiring trusted and reliable professional movers for this long-distance journey, ensuring that your move is as seamless and stress-free as possible.

5 Best Movers for Moving from Plano to Santa Ana

#1
Pure Moving Logo
Exceptional

based on 8,688+ data points

Santa Monica, CA
Residential moving, Commercial moving, Long-distance moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 3207734 Verify

About Pure Moving

Pure Moving has six locations across California, including an office in Los Angeles. This locally operated business moves over 10,000 client...Read More >>

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#2
King Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,200+ data points

Plano, TX
Local and long-distance moving, Moving antiques and high-value items, Household moving (houses and apartments) See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1933649 Verify

About King Moving Company

Established way back in 1995 as a moving company that specialized in moving antiques and decorative items for different antique malls and in...Read More >>

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#3
Evolution Moving Company Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,805+ data points

Dallas, TX
Long Distance Moving, Labor Only, Residential Moving See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 8/23/2022)

USDOT: 2467590 Verify

About Evolution Moving Company

Founded in 2013 in New Braunfels, Evolution Moving Company has expanded its professional moving and storage business to Dallas, Fort Worth, ...Read More >>

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#4
Terry Moving & Storage Logo
Exceptional

based on 2,308+ data points

Lake Forest, CA
Local Move, Interstate Move, Packing Services See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/24/2024)

USDOT: 649215 Verify

About Terry Moving & Storage

Terry Moving & Storage offers full-service moves locally and throughout the 11 Western States. This Lake Forest-based business has helpe...Read More >>

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#5
Olde World Movers Logo
Exceptional

based on 3,552+ data points

Euless, TX
Local Residential Moves, Long Distance Moves, Piano Movers See More
Authorized for Interstate Moves

(last checked 5/23/2024)

USDOT: 1844729 Verify

About Olde World Movers

Located in Fort Worth, TX, Olde World Movers prides itself on over three decades of moving experience serving residents and businesses in th...Read More >>

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Relocating from Plano to Santa Ana Neighborhood Guide

Moving can often feel like starting over in uncharted territory. To ease the transition, we've crafted a guide comparing popular neighborhoods between Plano, TX, and Santa Ana, CA. This comparison of the local neighborhoods between Plano, TX & Santa Ana, CA will help you discover a new home that mirrors the community you already know and love. Whether you're looking for a vibrant atmosphere or serene living, let this guide be your map.

PlanoSanta Ana
Willow BendFloral Park

Historic homes, community-focused

Legacy WestSouth Coast

Upscale shopping, dining

Kings RidgeWest Floral Park

Peaceful, well-kept gardens

AvalonPark Santiago

Lush, natural landscapes

Lakeside on PrestonWashington Square

Family-friendly, diverse community

The TrailsHeninger Park

Cultural diversity, artistic vibe

WhiffletreeFrench Park

Architectural charm, historical significance

DeerfieldWilshire Square

Festive atmosphere, holiday decorations

Old Shepard PlaceRiverview West

Quiet streets, community parks

Glenhollow EstatesMorrison Park

Green spaces, suburban feel

If you have cherished the upscale, historical charm of Willow Bend, with its sprawling homes and well-manicured lawns, you'll find a kindred spirit in Santa Ana's Floral Park, where each street is lined with historic homes and towering trees that echo the community's rich history. Similarly, if the vibrant shopping and dining experience of Legacy West has been your haunt, the South Coast neighborhood in Santa Ana beckons with high-end shopping centers like South Coast Plaza and an array of gourmet restaurants. For those who love the tranquil parks and recreational areas of Lakeside on Preston, Washington Square offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with ample green spaces and community events that make it easy to meet your neighbors and feel at home.

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Things to Do in Santa Ana

  • Explore the Santa Ana Public Library
  • Visit Discovery Cube Orange County
  • Stroll through Santiago Park Nature
  • Enjoy art at Bowers Museum
  • Shop at 4th Street Market
  • See a show at The Yost Theater
  • Join a class at Downtown Santa Ana

Ready to start your move?

Pros and Cons of Moving from Plano to Santa Ana

Moving can be an exciting yet daunting experience, especially when it involves transitioning between two distinct places. This comparison aims to provide an honest reflection of the good and the bad attributes of relocating from Plano, TX to Santa Ana, CA. By contrasting the challenges with the benefits, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of what to expect in your new environment.

CONs
PROs
Plano, TX iconPlano, TX
  • Hot summers
  • Less diversity
  • Lower walkability
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Milder climate
  • More diverse
  • Higher walkability
Santa Ana, CA iconSanta Ana, CA
  • Higher cost of living
  • Different job market
  • More traffic
Plano, TX iconPlano, TX
  • Cost-efficient housing
  • Strong job market
  • Better traffic conditions

When moving from Plano to Santa Ana, you'll exchange the fierce Texas heat for California's gentler climate, allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities year-round. Santa Ana invites you to explore its vibrant diversity through delightful culinary spots such as 4th Street Market. This city's urban layout enhances walkability, paving the way to explore numerous neighborhood parks and attractions like the Discovery Cube Orange County or the historic Heritage Museum of Orange County. While the cost of living might be a step up, the enriched cultural atmosphere and increased employment opportunities within sectors unique to California make Santa Ana an enticing new home base.

Food Scene Guide When Moving from Plano to Santa Ana

This is a comparison of the local cuisine between Plano, TX, and Santa Ana, CA, illustrating the integral role food plays in local culture and the living experience. By divulging into the culinary scenes of both areas, readers can gain a deeper understanding of what awaits them in their new locale.

PlanoSanta Ana

Most iconic local food item

BrisketFish Tacos

Most popular meat dish

Smoked RibsCarne Asada

Most popular street food item

TacosElote

Most popular vegan food

BBQ JackfruitTofu Tacos

Top 3 iconic restaurants that summarize the city

  • Smoke
  • Lockhart Smokehouse
  • Legacy Food Hall
  • Playground
  • 4th Street Market
  • Mil Jugos

Fitness/Health Conscientiousness

78

Abundance of Food Trucks

69

Foodie Scene

79

Vegan Friendly

68

In Santa Ana, the food scene is a vibrant mix of traditional and innovative fare reflecting its rich cultural diversity. Iconic local dishes like fish tacos can be savored along the downtown streets or at coastline diners, capturing the fresh, eclectic taste of the California coast. For vegan diners, restaurants like Mil Jugos offer inventive meat-free versions of traditional dishes, illustrating the city's progressive approach to food. Santa Ana’s abundant food trucks and markets, such as the 4th Street Market, are testament to its dynamic foodie scene, offering everything from gourmet treats to home-style cooking, ensuring you’ll never tire of exploring the flavors of your new home.

Restaurant Guide for Moving from Plano to Santa Ana

Food greatly influences how quickly a new city feels like home. With this guide, we aim to ease your transition from Plano, TX, to Santa Ana, CA, by comparing beloved eateries from your current hometown with potential favorites in your new locale. Find your next go-to restaurants from Plano to Santa Ana using this tailored comparison.

Whiskey CakePlayground

Innovative dishes and craft cocktails

Legacy Hall4th Street Market

Diverse food hall experience

HaywireAnepalco

Modern twist on American and Mexican cuisine

Urban CrustIl Dolce

Authentic wood-fired pizzas

Jasper'sTerra

Farm-to-table dining with a spotlight on local ingredients

Knife SteakhouseVaca

High-end steakhouse with a Spanish flair

Bob's Steak & Chop HouseMorton's The Steakhouse

Classic upscale steakhouse experience

Plano Tortilla FactoryEl Indio

Authentic Mexican eats focusing on fresh tortillas

Hutchins BBQHeritage Barbecue

Top-notch Texas-style barbecue

Seasons 52Farmhouse at Roger's Gardens

Seasonally driven menu in a charming setting

For barbecue lovers moving from Plano, finding a spot that recreates the authentic Texan barbecue experience is a must. Heritage Barbecue in Santa Ana meets this need with their dedication to low-and-slow cooking methods, reminiscent of what you'd find at Hutchins BBQ. Similarly, if pizza from Urban Crust was a go-to in Plano, Il Dolce’s artisanal, wood-fired pizzas offer a slice of familiarity with their commitment to authentic flavors and techniques. And for those seeking innovative dining experiences akin to Whiskey Cake, Playground in Santa Ana challenges the palate with creative dishes and a unique take on cocktails, ensuring your culinary exploration is as exciting as it was back in Texas.

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Ready to start your move?

Real Estate Facts to Know Before Moving from Plano to Santa Ana

Real estate is one of the most important aspects of a move. Understanding how Plano and Santa Ana compare in terms of housing can make your transition smoother. Knowing about cost, architecture, and lifestyle options will help you make an informed decision.

The decision between Plano and Santa Ana can hinge on several factors as highlighted in the table. Plano's housing is generally more affordable, but Santa Ana offers a more urban lifestyle with higher walkability and bikeability scores, reflecting its denser, more pedestrian-friendly layout. The architecture in Santa Ana often features the romantic Spanish Colonial style, adding to the city's charm. Considering the proximity to beaches in Santa Ana, it's a crucial point for those prioritizing coastal living. Both cities offer their unique advantages, but depending on your lifestyle preferences and budget, one may suit you better than the other.

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Pet-friendly Neighborhoods in Santa Ana, CA

1. Park Santiago: Known for its tranquil atmosphere and lush green spaces, you'll find Santiago Park perfect for walks with your furry friends.

2. Floral Park: This neighborhood boasts beautiful, walkable streets and a strong community vibe, with Floral Park Neighborhood Association even hosting pet-friendly events.

3. French Park: Highlighted by its historic homes and close proximity to French Park, it offers ample space and a friendly atmosphere for pet owners.

Weather Considerations for Moving from Plano to Santa Ana

Moving from one city to another often involves adjusting to new weather patterns. This comparison aims to highlight how the climate in Plano, TX diverges from that in Santa Ana, CA, ensuring you know what to expect in terms of temperature, sun, and general weather conditions before you make the move.

Summer icon
94/75

Plano, TX

83/64

Santa Ana, CA

Average Summer High/Low (°F)

Winter icon
57/37

Plano, TX

70/48

Santa Ana, CA

Average Winter High/Low (°F)

Rainfall icon
40.2

Plano, TX

13.9

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Rainfall (Inches)

Snowfall icon
1

Plano, TX

0

Santa Ana, CA

Annual Snowfall (Inches)

When moving from Plano to Santa Ana, you'll encounter milder summers, more sunny days, and significantly less rainfall. Santa Ana's winters are gentler, with higher average temperatures, dramatically reducing the chance of snow but increasing the risk for dry conditions and wildfires. The shift in air quality might also be noticeable, moving from Plano's generally good air to Santa Ana's moderate quality, which can dip to unhealthy levels for sensitive groups due to occasional wildfires and smog from nearby urban centers.

Ready to start your move?

Money, Economy, and Job Market Considerations for Moving from Plano to Santa Ana

When considering a move from Plano, TX to Santa Ana, CA, it's crucial to grasp the financial landscape you're entering. This comparison will shine a light on various economic aspects to prepare you for the transition. Moving from Plano to Santa Ana involves a significant change in cost of living, taxes, and economic conditions, highlighting the importance of understanding these differences.

When moving from Plano, TX, to Santa Ana, CA, you'll encounter a noticeable difference in the cost of living and tax structure. The average household income in Santa Ana is slightly lower than in Plano, yet the cost of living index is significantly higher. This means you'll likely pay more for day-to-day expenses in Santa Ana. Furthermore, Texas's lack of state income tax contrasts sharply with California's progressive tax system, where you could pay up to 13.3% depending on your income bracket. However, the average property tax rate is significantly lower in Santa Ana, which may be beneficial if you're planning to buy property. The shift from Plano's technology and retail-driven economy to Santa Ana's service and education-focused industries marks another significant change. Understanding these financial nuances will help you prepare for your move and adjust your budget accordingly.

Political & Religious Comparison between Plano, TX and Santa Ana, CA

Moving from one city to another can bring about significant changes in your social and cultural environment. This comparison between Plano, TX, and Santa Ana, CA offers a quick, at-a-glance snapshot of the political and religious makeup of the residents in both cities. Understanding these aspects can help you better prepare for your new community.

PlanoSanta Ana

Political Make-up

ConservativeLiberal

Local Politics

Moderately RepublicanStrongly Democratic

Religion

Religiously diverse, with a Christian majorityMajority Catholic, with a significant portion of residents identifying as religiously unaffiliated

While both Plano and Santa Ana are diverse cities, their political and religious landscapes differ markedly. Plano's political environment is generally more conservative and leans moderately Republican, reflecting Texas's broader political culture. In comparison, Santa Ana is recognized for its liberal stance and a strong Democratic presence, mirroring California's overall political climate. Religiously, Plano exhibits a diversity with a notable Christian majority. Santa Ana, on the other hand, has a significant Catholic population, alongside a considerable number of individuals identifying as religiously unaffiliated. This shift in political and religious environments can be an important factor in feeling at home in your new city.

Traffic and Public Transit Considerations for Moving from Plano to Santa Ana

Moving from Plano, TX, to Santa Ana, CA, requires getting acquainted with different driving and transit landscapes. This comparison of the traffic and transportation options between Plano & Santa Ana aims to help you better understand what the daily commute and traffic is like, ensuring a smoother transition to your new home.

PlanoSanta Ana
2625

Avg Commute Time (in minutes)

67

Traffic Congestion (out of 10)

36

Availability of Public Transit (out of 10)

NoYes, but challenging

Can you get by without car?

In Plano, the relatively moderate traffic congestion might seem appealing, but you'll find that public transportation options are not as robust, making owning a car almost a necessity for a convenient daily commute. On the other hand, Santa Ana boasts slightly better public transit availability, thanks to its network of buses and proximity to other modes of transport in the larger Orange County area. Although it's still possible to live in Santa Ana without a vehicle, doing so may require more planning and time to navigate effectively. Regardless of your choice, understanding these dynamics will be crucial for managing your time and expectations in either city.

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